Today's MLB Best Bets: Picks, Predictions and Odds for ALL Games on Monday 07/20

As the Toronto Blue Jays welcome the Tampa Bay Rays to town, expect fireworks at the plate. Both teams come into this matchup riding impressive offensive trends. The Blue Jays have been racking up runs with a lineup that features the likes of Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who has been on a tear, and their recent home games have seen an uptick in scoring, averaging over six runs per game. On the flip side, the Rays possess a potent offense of their own, regularly putting pressure on opposing pitchers. They’ve demonstrated a knack for capitalizing on mistakes, which could spell trouble for any hurler taking the mound today. With both teams boasting a tendency to light up the scoreboard, the odds favor an explosive contest. The total set at 9 feels a bit low given these offensive strengths, and with models projecting upwards of 11 runs, betting the over here seems like a savvy play.

Toronto Blue Jays vs Tampa Bay Rays : Over 9.5 Total Runs (+191)

As we dive into the matchup between the Blue Jays and the Rays, the scene is set for a run-fest. Toronto has been swinging a hot bat lately, showcasing their powerful lineup that ranks among the league's best in home runs and OPS. With players like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette leading the charge, they can easily put up crooked numbers, especially at Rogers Centre where the ball tends to fly on warm summer nights. On the flip side, the Rays have their own offensive weapons, boasting a well-rounded lineup that's adept at generating runs. Both teams have shown an inclination to score, with the Blue Jays averaging over five runs per game in their last few outings. Add in the potential for shaky pitching on both sides, and it’s clear we might see a high-scoring affair. With the total set at 9.5, betting the over seems like a smart play for this lively showdown.

Kansas City Royals vs San Francisco Giants : Under 8.5 Total Runs (+176)

As the Royals welcome the Giants to Kauffman Stadium, the under bet on total runs feels particularly enticing. Kansas City has been a low-scoring unit lately, struggling to string together hits against quality pitching while averaging just over three runs per game during their last stretch. Meanwhile, the Giants' starting pitcher has been in fine form, boasting a 2.95 ERA and often inducing weak contact, which has kept many lineups at bay. Both teams have shown a tendency to lean into strong pitching—San Francisco’s bats have been inconsistent, particularly against right-handers. With the weather potentially adding a bit of chill, the ball may not be flying out of the park. Combine that with the Royals' recent struggles to find their rhythm at the plate, and it’s easy to envision a matchup that falls below the 8.5 total runs mark. Betting on the under could be a savvy play in this tightly contested game.

Kansas City Royals vs San Francisco Giants : Under 8 Total Runs (+209)

As the Kansas City Royals host the San Francisco Giants, a clash of contrasting styles is set to unfold, setting the stage for a tight contest. The Giants, despite their offensive firepower, have struggled to find their rhythm recently, averaging just 3.5 runs over their last week. Conversely, the Royals have leaned heavily on their pitching, with their starters posting a solid 3.80 ERA in July. With both teams showing a tendency to grind out low-scoring games, the under seems particularly enticing. San Francisco's batters have struck out at an alarming rate, while the Royals' pitchers have been adept at limiting hard contact. Kansas City's home field tends to suppress scoring as well, adding to the case for a low total. With the numbers suggesting that runs could be hard to come by, taking the under on 8 runs feels like a savvy play in this matchup.

Kansas City Royals vs San Francisco Giants : Under 5.5 totals_1st_5_innings (-114)

As the Kansas City Royals host the San Francisco Giants on July 20, this matchup is shaping up to be a pitcher’s duel. Both teams have been struggling at the plate lately, with the Giants averaging just over three runs per game in their last series. Their lineup has been particularly vulnerable against left-handed pitching, and Royals’ starter has been effective in keeping opposing batsmen off balance. On the other side, the Royals have also had trouble generating offense, failing to crack five runs in many of their recent contests. With the total set at 5.5, the under seems enticing. The last few meetings between these two teams have tended to be low-scoring, and with the Royals’ solid bullpen backing up their starter, it’s tough to see either team breaking out for a big inning. Expect a tight game that might not even hit six runs.